Mention canal or river cruising to people and many will think of the long narrow mini ships carrying passengers through the scenic rivers and canals in Europe. Or perhaps a cruise ship making its way through the Panama canal. For boaters that prefer to get around on our own, boats carrying a family or two offer a more personal cruise that has been gaining popularity for good reason. Consider Canalboat cruising – where you don’t have to pack or unpack every time you go to your next destination. Enjoy the comforts of home while on your own personal floating hotel for several days at a time. A canalboat cruise takes you to a world where the pace of life slows down and every moment can be cherished. Enjoy time with your partner, family or friends relaxing as the countryside steeped in history and culture slowly slips by.

Entertaining on the upper deck

If you can drive a car, you can pilot this type of boat. They are very easy to handle and no licence is required. Canalboat cruising makes for an ideal first boating vacation. The base where you board your boat will fully orient you and ensure you are completely comfortable before you head out. In the unlikely event that you run into any difficulties, assistance is just a phone call away.

Typically these boats have large windows, televisions, adequate storage, private en-suite baths and many of the amenities you are accustomed to. Comfortable cabins, hot water, showers and toilets along with large refrigerators, gas stove, microwaves and a fully equipped kitchen. The outside BBQ, coolers, tables and sitting area compliment the lounging areas to help make your holiday complete and easy to entertain.

A great vacation for the entire family

Most popular in Europe, a canal boating holiday is something you will definitely remember. Different regions and countries have their own unique character and points of interest. Pull into small towns and villages to go grocery shopping and take in the culture. Explore historic castles, cathedrals and architecture. It’s a perfect romantic escape for 2 people, a family holiday that all will enjoy, or a group adventure amongst friends. Most of the destinations have historic relevance and heritage, many have glorious gastronomy, stunning scenery and several are ideal for fishing and watersports to satisfy everyone’s interest.

Locks are part of the experience and after the initial few, become fun. There are an infinite number of routes to choose from so some pre-planning is recommended and part of the fun. City cores are located on rivers so there is much to see and do right from where you dock your boat. A different location every day, with the freedom to adapt your schedule to whatever interests and attracts you.

New in 2018 outside of Europe is the Rideau Canal just off of Canada’s capital Ottawa. Explore this land of diversity where nature and culture combine, for an exciting and exhilarating water get-away.

Many countries in Europe offer canalboat cruising. France alone has over 5,000 miles of navigable inland waterways making it possible to cross the country by boat from end to end with a great variety of scenic beauty. Bicycles work well on canal boats to further explore places of interest without the trouble

Visit destinations from the comfort or your boat

of car rentals or cabs. Grab hold of a unique opportunity to experience the real side of a vacation destination with enchanting waterways carrying you from city to city while you submerse yourself into the culture. A great way to connect with your family and friends, allowing the charm and magic of these wonderful destinations to create lifetime memories.

To start planning your canalboat vacation, talk to one of the friendly yacht charter specialist at YACHT Solutions 1-855-907-9046.